Solar carport structures: what to send your steel partner
A solar carport is a parking structure that also holds an array. The panels add weight, catch wind, and have to line up with electrical runs. Here is what a steel fabricator needs from you to design and price the structure.
Panel and array data
- Panel datasheet: make, model, dimensions, weight and mounting-hole pattern.
- Array layout: rows, columns, tilt and orientation. Tilt changes wind loads and roof height.
- Racking: whether the panels mount on purlins we supply or on racking your installer supplies.
Parking and site
- Parking plan with stall lines, drive aisles and the area to cover.
- Project location, so wind and soil requirements can be matched.
- Engineer of record requirements and geotechnical report, if available.
- Light poles, utilities and drainage the structure must avoid.
EV charging and electrical
- Charger locations and conduit routes. These affect column placement.
- Who supplies conduit, inverters and wiring. Superior builds the steel structure; your solar contractor handles panels and electrical.
Schedule
- Interconnection and utility dates.
- When the structure must be complete for panels to go on.
Which carport style works
Full and semi cantilever carports are common for solar because the stalls stay open and the roof plane is clear for panels. Mid span layouts can work where columns fit the lot. See our solar-ready carports and the page for solar contractors.
Ready to price a structure? Send your panel data and site plan.
Related questions
Does Superior install the panels?
No. We fabricate and install the steel structure. Your solar contractor supplies and installs panels and electrical.
Can you work from preliminary layouts?
Yes. We can give budget guidance from a preliminary layout and refine the price as the design firms up.
Send us your plans. We'll send you a bid.
Upload drawings or tell us the location and number of stalls. Our estimating team reviews it and replies.
Get a Bid Call 281-577-4066